Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2024 - Page 2


Page 2 of 41

When detecting depression, the eyes have it

Researchers developed two new AI-powered smartphone apps to spot depression warnings in pupils' dilation, unconscious facial expressions, and head movements. The systems showed 76% accuracy in detecting depressed states, outperforming existing smartphone-based detection platforms.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateSep 30, 2024

Tracking microplastics: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering researcher helps discover how microplastics move for better storm water management

A study by FAMU-FSU College of Engineering researcher Nasrin Alamdari found that the shape, size, and density of microplastics affect their sinking speed, impacting urban stormwater transport. The research suggests solutions like permeable pavements and green spaces can trap microplastics, reducing pollution.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateSep 30, 2024

New synthesis strategy could speed up PFAS decontamination

Rice engineers developed a new synthesis strategy for covalent organic frameworks (COFs) that can be used to trap gases, filter water and speed up chemical reactions. The approach enables faster production of COFs with superior crystallinity and high efficiency in breaking down harmful chemicals.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

Fluorescent molecules to illuminate life: simplified synthesis with formaldehyde

A research team has developed a simplified synthesis method for organic fluorophores using formaldehyde, reducing molecular size and increasing atomic efficiency. The new technique can also be applied to in vivo environments, showing promise for life sciences research and diagnostics applications.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 30, 2024

Combining AI and thermal video offers a new window into weightlifting

Researchers developed a method combining AI and thermal cameras to enhance weightlifting training, providing data-driven insights for targeted strategies. The approach enables real-time tracking of muscle activation, strain detection, and temperature changes, ultimately helping athletes optimize performance and safety.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateSep 30, 2024

Frequent fizzy or fruit drinks and high coffee consumption linked to higher stroke risk

Research from a global study co-led by University of Galway found that frequent drinking of fizzy drinks or fruit juice increases the risk of stroke. Drinking more than four cups of coffee per day also raises this risk. The study advises avoiding or minimizing fizzy and fruit drinks, and switching to water instead.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalJournal of Stroke·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2024

Support for meat rationing to protect climate

A new study from Uppsala University found that nearly 40% of the public support rationing of goods like meat and fuel to reduce their climate impact. The study, which surveyed over 9,000 people in five countries, also showed that acceptability of rationing is on par with taxes for emissions-intensive food.

SourceUppsala University·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·TypeSurvey·DateSep 30, 2024

Thaumatin: natural sweetener with anti-inflammatory potential

A new study reveals thaumatin, a widely used natural sweetener, produces bitter peptides that stimulate acid secretion and influence inflammatory reactions in human stomach cells. The peptides also show anti-inflammatory effects by reducing pro-inflammatory interleukin 17A release via the TAS2R16 bitter taste receptor.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

Study: Conflicting goals, focus on economic development lead to underperforming streetcar systems

Cities with high-performing streetcar systems prioritize transporting people to desired locations, while those that focus on economic development often experience poor performance. The study highlights the importance of focusing on passenger attraction and coordinated fare policies for successful streetcar systems.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

New imaging technique brings us closer to simplified, low-cost agricultural quality assessment

Researchers developed a method to reconstruct hyperspectral images from standard RGB images using deep machine learning. The technique achieved over 70% accuracy in predicting soluble solid content and 88% accuracy in dry matter content in sweet potatoes, with potential applications for the agricultural industry.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2024

Time-restricted eating associated with greater blood sugar control and fat loss than standard nutrition counseling

A randomized controlled trial found that time-restricted eating (TRE) led to greater improvements in glucose control, weight loss, and fat reduction compared to standard nutrition counseling in adults with metabolic syndrome. TRE resulted in a lower risk of muscle mass loss during weight loss.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2024

Honey, I shrunk the city: What should declining Japanese cities do?

A study reveals that shrinking Japanese cities are often medium-sized or small, and that urban policies should be tailored to their specific needs. The research found correlations between population changes and social, economic, and urban-planning factors in cities of varying sizes.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalEnvironment and Planning B Urban Analytics and City Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2024

Keeping a longer overnight fast and eating an early breakfast may be associated with a lower body mass index

A recent study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity suggests that extending overnight fasts and eating an early breakfast may be associated with a lower body mass index. The research, led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, involved over 7,000 volunteers who answered questionnai...

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

Coral reef destruction a threat to human rights

A human rights-based approach to coral reef protection could ensure governments are held accountable for safeguarding marine ecosystems. An estimated one billion people rely on healthy coral reefs globally for food security and income, highlighting the catastrophic impact of their loss on human health and economic wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2024

What is the moon's true origin story?

Two Penn State researchers propose an alternative theory: the moon was captured in a binary-exchange capture, where Earth's gravity snagged one of two objects, resulting in its current orbit. This new possibility opens up new questions and opportunities for further study.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2024

Brigham study finds older adults who experience a fall are at increased risk of dementia

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that older adults who sustained a traumatic injury were more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias if they experienced falls. The study suggests that completing cognitive screenings in older patients after a fall could help detect dementia sooner.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2024

Medical imaging breakthrough could transform cancer and arthritis diagnosis

A new hand-held scanner can generate highly detailed 3D images in seconds, paving the way for earlier disease diagnosis. The technology uses laser-generated ultrasound waves to visualize subtle changes in blood vessels, helping inform patient care and diagnose conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

American Academy of Pediatrics promotes shared reading starting in infancy as a positive parenting practice with lifelong benefits

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends pediatricians support families with guidance and books at well-child visits. Shared reading strengthens bonds and stimulates brain circuitry, creating early attachments. This practice has enduring benefits for social-emotional, cognitive, language, and literacy development.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 29, 2024